Season Two Episode Six - Vanishing Point
SFX: quiet quarterdeck chatter. A bell rings six times. A chair rotates.
MIDSHIPMAN: Mm. Six bells and all's well… sir.
DALLIANCE XO: Very good. Any word from the supply ship, Mr. Taylor?
TAYLOR: No sir… no word.
SFX: a door whooshes open, footsteps approach. A boatswain’s whistle pipes.
DALLIANCE XO: Commander on deck.
MEDWIN: At ease, thank you all.
MIDSHIPMAN: Commodore Medwin sir. If… If I may sir, I'm struggling to-
SFX: a body falls to the deck, several people gasp.
MEDWIN: How long has this man been on watch?
MIDSHIPMAN: I'm sorry sir… I can still…
MEDWIN: Mr. Taylor, would you take this man to the sickbay right away.
TAYLOR: Yes sir.
SFX: footsteps and shuffling as the body is picked up.
TAYLOR: Come on mate, you're alright. Let's get you down there.
SFX: door whooshes open and closed as footsteps retreat. Chatter resumes.
DALLIANCE XO: That's the third today, sir. We've been at one-fifth rations for a week, they can't take this much longer.
MEDWIN: I know.
DALLIANCE XO: The purser was suggesting we try to barter with the Union and Freehold contingents.
MEDWIN: I've already looked into it. They're doing no better than we are.
DALLIANCE XO: Did you hear the report from Acasta? Another altercation, their boatswain was attacked with some kind of socket wrench.
MEDWIN: There's nothing to be done about it, Commander. I cannot make the supply ships come faster. They tell me some sort of action is being taken in response to the alien's request.
DALLIANCE XO: They're bringing the Ancelet woman out here? Will there be a resupply as well?
MEDWIN: I don't know. They won't tell me anything.
SFX: chatter continues.
DALLIANCE XO: Sir. You must have heard the kind of talk among the foremast hands. They're so far gone they've convinced themselves there's a buffet waiting for them right behind those alien ships and through that gate.
MEDWIN: I know… If this keeps up much longer, someone, somewhere in this fleet, is going to do something very very stupid. And god help us all when they do.
SFX: dramatic music swells.
SFX: Intro music starts - “Wilderness” by Taylor Davis.
NARRATOR: The Sojourn, Season Two Episode Six: Vanishing Point by Daniel Orrett and Larissa Thompson. Starring Larissa Thompson as Captain Cassandra Farren, Emily Serdahl as Elizabeth Ancelet, Laura Faye Smith as Tamara Melari, and Ben Prendergast as Mathias Croft. Also featuring Matt Surges as Post Captain Lewis Harper, Tori Danner as Prime Minister Nicola Sarali, and Special Guest Star Dominic Keating as Fleet Admiral Darius Farren.
SFX: Theme music continues.
ELIZABETH: Hey you.
SFX: ice clinks in a glass, birds chirp.
CASS: Hey. Just got a comm from Meds, she's hiking just outside Northgale, we've got an open invitation to join her.
ELIZABETH: Tempting, but as I understand it, that would involve spending our last couple of days of shore leave outside of this cottage and undertaking some level of effort.
CASS: That's normally involved in hiking, yes.
SFX: wine cork pops out, wine is poured.
ELIZABETH: Whereas we have wine, and a cheeseboard, with a relatively convincing approximation of cheese on it.
CASS: We do have those things, yes.
ELIZABETH: Well that's decided then.
SFX: a quiet chirp.
ELIZABETH: Oh hang on. Comm's going.
SFX: cello strings pluck at random.
CASS: Eleven bells. Probably just Croft sending pictures of his lunch again.
SFX: dramatic music fades in.
CASS: Liz? …What is it?
ELIZABETH: Holy shit…
CASS: We're not having the cheeseboard, are we?
ELIZABETH: We're not having the cheeseboard.
SFX: dramatic music swells.
- Scene Change -
SFX: door whooshes closed as multiple footsteps approach.
CASS: Thanks for getting back aboard so quickly, everyone. Sorry to have to cut off the last couple of days of shore leave.
CROFT: Bollocks to shore leave, they asked for you by name, Boss? The hell is going on?
ELIZABETH: I don't know.
MEDS: How do they even know your name? It's gotta be from Vadric, right? He must have made it back to his people, somehow got them to listen to him?
CROFT: Hell yes Vaddy!
CASS: We've no way to know that. We've no way to know anything for that matter.
MEDS: It was Admiral Farren who sent the dispatch, right?
ELIZABETH: Yeah. He wants me to rendezvous with his ship near Iona, and transfer aboard to be taken to the Advari blockade. This could be the only chance for Tantalus. I can't walk away from this. I can charter a clipper here in Coastridge.
CASS: No way. If you're going, then we're taking you, and I'm coming with you to that blockade. You're not doing this on your own.
ELIZABETH: I… thank you.
CASS: Croft, get up to the bridge and lay us a course for Iona. Tell the dockmaster we'll be departing within the hour.
CROFT: You got it, Skip.
SFX: determined music swells.
- Scene Change -
SFX: music continues.
CASS: Ship's log, Guinevere. 148th of Solstice, 305 PCU. We're approaching the small planet of Iona on the outer periphery of the Centrum System, on course to make our rendezvous with Admiral Farren at the agreed time.
SFX: music fades out:
- Scene Change -
SFX: a beep.
MEDS: Contact, fine on the starboard bow.
CROFT: There she is. Big scary ship at 14.8 kilometers.
CASS: Open a secure channel, Meds.
SFX: comm beeps open.
MEDS: You're on.
CASS: CSV Pendragon, this is Guinevere. We have Doctor Elizabeth Ancelet aboard. Request permission to dock.
DAVENPORT (over comms): Corvette Guinevere. This is Flag Captain Lucinda Davenport of the Pendragon. You are cleared to airlock four, transmitting approach vector.
SFX: computer beeping.
CROFT: Got 'em.
CASS: Vectors received, Pendragon. Beginning approach.
SFX: vector engines fire. Gentle music plays.
ELIZABETH: You don't have to come with me, you know. You don't have to see him again.
CASS: Thank you. But I can handle it. We're doing this together.
ELIZABETH: Okay.
CROFT: Three-three-zero seconds to hard seal.
SFX: rumbling and hissing.
CASS: Meds, you're in command til we get back. Don't take on anything too involved while you're shorthanded.
MEDS: Exercise common sense, you got it.
CASS: We'll be back soon.
SFX: door whooshes open.
MEDS: We'll be waiting. Good luck.
SFX: music fades out.
- Scene Change -
SFX: hissing, rumbling, and beeping as the airlock cycles open. A PA plays over speakers.
CASS: Huh. No side party.
ELIZABETH: Where is everyone?
SFX: footsteps approach.
DARIUS: Ah, Dr. Ancelet, welcome aboard the Pendragon. Cassandra, it's good to see you. I did not think you would be coming aboard, will you be joining us?
CASS: I will, with your permission.
DARIUS: Of course, of course. I'm very glad to have you here. One moment, please.
SFX: a beep.
DARIUS: Mr. Bantrell, please inform Captain Davenport that the Guinevere may be given clearance to depart at her convenience.
BANTRELL (over comms): Right away, sir.
DARIUS: I must apologize to both of you for the lack of ceremony upon your arrival here. In fact, I'm afraid it will be necessary for us to take a… service gangway up to the deck where you will be quartered.
CASS: Is something wrong?
DARIUS: The enlisted personnel and many of the officers aboard this ship are… unaware of your presence aboard, Dr. Ancelet. Actually, they believe the docking we just carried out was an inspection of your ship for… smuggled goods.
ELIZABETH: Oh... I can imagine why.
DARIUS: Yes, I'm afraid your name is somewhat politically inconvenient at the moment. There are now majorities on both sides of the house content to hold you responsible for our current situation. If the news were to spread that the Advari have now… asked for you by name–
ELIZABETH: It's okay. I understand. Lead the way.
SFX: PA continues over speakers. Footsteps retreat.
- Scene Change -
SFX: door whooshes open.
DARIUS: I hope these quarters will be sufficient for as long as you're aboard.
ELIZABETH: This will be perfect, thank you.
SFX: duffel bag is set down, zipping.
DARIUS: I'm afraid for obvious reasons, I must ask you to remain confined to this cabin until we reach our destination. Please use the wall comm for anything you might need, I'll ensure that Mr. Bantrell provides it for you.
SFX: zipping.
CASS: Thanks.
DARIUS: I'll leave you to settle in. Good evening.
SFX: door whooshes closed.
CASS: You okay?
ELIZABETH: Yeah. Not how I was expecting it to go down, I suppose. Stupid really. It's not as if I didn't know exactly how they all feel about me.
CASS: They're all wrong. We live in a shit time and people are desperate. Desperate people need someone to pin the blame on, the media provides it. That's all.
ELIZABETH: You love me, you have to say that. But thanks anyway.
- Scene Change -
SFX: door whooshes open, footsteps approach.
DAVENPORT: Admiral Farren, sir. Advari Blockade now in sight, we are approaching the friendly defensive perimeter.
DARIUS: Very good, Captain. Open a channel to the pennant ship please.
SFX: a click.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Dalliance, Pendragon. Request direct comm link. Admiral Farren would like to speak to Actual.
SFX: computer chirps.
SIGNALS OFFICER: I have Commodore Medwin for you, sir.
DARIUS: Very good. On speakers.
MEDWIN (over comms): Admiral Farren sir. It's good to see you here. I understand you have Dr. Ancelet on board.
DARIUS: Yes, Commodore. We will be attempting to establish diplomatic contact with the Advari.
MEDWIN (over comms): Very good sir. However, I must appraise you of the situation here among the multi-national fleet. Speaking for my own squadron, I must report that we are cripplingly low on supplies and have been for several weeks. Much of my crews are seriously incapacitated by malnutrition, and morale is dangerously low. It is my understanding that conditions among the Union and Freehold contingents are barely any better. I must ask if you have available supplies to distribute.
DARIUS: Commodore, I was unaware of the seriousness of your situation here. I will ensure that surplus supplies from the Pendragon's holds are distributed among your squadron immediately.
MEDWIN (over comms): Thank you sir. But I must warn you this may come too late. Several ships of my squadron have begun to regularly miss scheduled reports and position adjustments. Violent altercations aboard ship have become frequent. I fear a complete breakdown in command structure may be imminent, sir.
DARIUS: I understand, Commodore. I shall send word for reinforcements to be dispatched urgently so that your ships may be removed from blockade duty, but for the moment we must complete our diplomatic mission. For the duration of my presence here I have been instructed to take personal command of your forces.
MEDWIN (over comms): Of course, sir.
DARIUS: Thank you Commodore. Then by order of the Cabinet Office I hereby assume command of this squadron, please note the time and date in the ship's log. Commodore Medwin, I relieve you sir.
MEDWIN (over comms): I stand relieved.
DARIUS: Mr. Bantrell. Please pass the word for Ambassador Middleton and our guests to join me on the quarterdeck immediately.
BANTRELL: Right away sir.
SFX: beeping
HELMSMAN: Captain we are now stationkeeping in line abreast with friendly vessels. Advari blockade bears one-eight mark zero-four, now within live signal range.
DAVENPORT: Very good, Ensign.
SFX: music fades out
- Scene Change -
SFX: door chimes
ELIZABETH: Enter.
SFX: door opens.
BANTRELL: Dr. Ancelet, Captain Farren. The Admiral's compliments and you're to please join him on the quarterdeck. I can escort you there immediately.
CASS: Lead the way.
SFX: footsteps, the door closes. A boatswains whistle sounds and announcements play on speakers.
BANTRELL: Doctor Ancelet. I understand you've been fully briefed as to the cabinet's diplomatic goals, should we make contact with the Advari?
ELIZABETH: Yes, though I have serious doubts we'll be able to secure some of the outcomes they're hoping for. I'll certainly give it my best shot though.
BANTRELL: Hopefully you'll be of some assistance to the ambassador.
CASS: I'm sorry, what Ambassador?
BANTRELL: We're here.
SFX: door whooshes open, quarterdeck chatter rises. Music gets quietly exciting.
DARIUS: Ah, Dr. Ancelet, Captain Farren. May I present the honorable Heneage Middleton of the Diplomatic Service, former Centran Ambassador to the Merician Freehold and Usher Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garrowin Rod.
MIDDLETON: Your servant, ladies. Doctor Ancelet, it is both my hope and my fullest expectation that I shall take singular benefit from your cultural experience and advice in these negotiations.
CASS: Whoa hang on, They asked to talk to her. You can't just put them through to somebody else.
DARIUS: Yes… It has been indicated to me by the Cabinet that the Advari may be willing to open negotiations if they merely know that Dr. Ancelet is there. They feel it may not be necessary for her to conduct the negotiations directly-
CASS: "Indicated-"? That doesn't make any sense. What the hell are they playing at?
DARIUS: I must stress that these decisions are… not mine. These orders were drafted by an interdepartmental cabinet committee.
CASS: For God's sake…
MIDDLETON: Rest assured, ladies, I am more than qualified.
ELIZABETH: I have no idea how they might react to this, i-it could easily make things worse. We need to discuss-
SFX: muffled booming, computer beeping.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Contact! Correction, multiple contacts!
DAVENPORT: Whereaway, Lieutenant?
SIGNALS OFFICER: Just emerged from Edric's Gate, ma'am.
DARIUS: Analysis if you please.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Advari Shuttleflier, Admiral. Under close escort by six of their fliers. It's moving to dock with the lead Advari Lightship.
DARIUS: Supplies, perhaps? Have we seen similar activity before?
DAVENPORT: According to Dalliance's logs, Admiral, nothing has emerged from Edric's Gate since the blockade began, until now that is.
DARIUS: A reaction to our arrival, perhaps? Well I see no reason to delay. Is the translation program prepared?
SIGNALS OFFICER: It is, Admiral.
DARIUS: Then you may begin, Ambassador.
SFX: computer beeping.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Now recording, Ambassador.
SFX: quarterdeck chatter and music stop. Footsteps pace slowly.
MIDDLETON: Advari vessels. My most heartfelt greetings, I am Ambassador Heneage Middleton, diplomatic representative of the sovereign state of the Centrum Assembly, as duly appointed by the Right Honorable Nicola Sarali, Prime Minister. More than a year ago, we dispatched a fleet of ships into your territory via the large Drift Gate you now guard, unaware of your existence and seeking a solution to the famine that threatens our species. Please, accept my most sincere apologies for this incursion into your territory. We bore no ill intentions then, and we bear none now. It is the singular wish of my government to mend relations with your people, and to inaugurate a time of peace and mutual respect between our great nations.
SFX: computer beeping.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Translating. Stand by.
CASS: Nice and short.
DARIUS: Daughter, I realize this situation is less than ideal, but perhaps this is not the time for sarcasm.
ELIZABETH: She's not far wrong though. The Advari are a fairly laconic people as far as I can tell, and he's certainly not doing the translation system any favors.
SFX: another beep.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Message transmitting, Captain.
DAVENPORT: What sort of light lag are we looking at, Lieutenant?
SIGNALS OFFICER: Four point two seconds, ma'am.
DAVENPORT: Very well, stand by.
SFX: quiet chatter. Beeping.
ADVARI VOICE: You… Will state… terms.
DARIUS: That's the whole message?
SIGNALS OFFICER: Yes, Admiral.
ELIZABETH: I-if I may, I'm not sure that’s entirely correct?
MIDDLETON: What do you mean, Doctor.
ELIZABETH: Just looking at the translation readout, I don't think that word actually means "terms", per se. Something closer to "desires?"
MIDDLETON: That hardly seems a meaningful distinction, Doctor. Might we save the academic minutiae for another time? Lieutenant, would you begin recording please.
DAVENPORT: Go ahead, Lieutenant.
SFX: typing, beeping.
SIGNAL OFFICER: Now recording.
MIDDLETON: Your message is warmly received. It is our foremost wish to ensure protection of both our peoples. As such, we wish to enter into a pact of non-aggression between our powers. Confident that we each approach the other in good faith, we may then discuss the possibility of trade and commerce between our nations. As stated previously, we’re in desperate need of provisions for our citizens. In our exploration of your space, we discovered vast, bountiful deposits of food and resources, that would seem to be in surplus for you. We recognize and cherish your sovereign rule of the planet we call "The Greenhouse," and we humbly request your leave to construct a small outpost on this planet, where we may re-establish agricultural facilities, to extract resources and deliver them, under a flag of truce, back through the Drift lane that connects our territories. We of course welcome any suggested reciprocation in return for this permission, and I am confident we may find a solution that benefits and protects us both. You may send, Lieutenant.
SFX: beeping.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Message away.
SFX: chatter continues. Beeping.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Receiving reply.
SFX: more beeping.
ADVARI VOICE: No.
DARIUS: Well that's clear enough.
MIDDLETON: Begin recording again, Lieutenant.
ELIZABETH: I think we should take a second here to-
SFX: beeping.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Hold a moment. Another signal coming in from the Advari. Translation complete.
ADVARI VOICE: The one… called… Elizabeth. Immediately.
MIDDLETON: The one called Elizabeth is here, she sends her best regards, however I am quite able to-
DARIUS: Belay that. Lieutenant do not send that message.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Aye sir.
DARIUS: Ambassador Middleton, I believe we have now received the full benefit of your diplomatic expertise, I shall commend your performance to the cabinet. Mr. Bantrell, please escort the Ambassador to his quarters.
SFX: footsteps approach.
MIDDLETON: Admiral Farren, I am in the middle of critical negotiations. I cannot simply be dismissed out of hand.
DARIUS: I assure you, you can. Mr. Bantrell.
BANTRELL: Come with me Ambassador.
MIDDLETON: Damn your eyes man! This is an outrage! I have a cousin at Admiralty House. The Prime Minister herself will hear of this disgrace! For a naval officer to treat a civilian ambassador in this way, for shame, I say,
SFX: door opens, then closes.
MIDDLETON (muffled): for shame-
DARIUS: Doctor Ancelet, the floor is yours.
ELIZABETH: Thank you Admiral.
CASS: The cabinet isn't going to be happy about this.
DARIUS: Yes. Terrible shame.
ELIZABETH: Would you begin recording please.
DAVENPORT: Proceed, Lieutenant.
SFX: typing and beeping. Wistful, hopeful music rises.
SIGNALS OFFICER: You're on, Doctor.
ELIZABETH: Diom Lin. This is Elizabeth Ancelet. I understand that you have asked for me directly. I would be very glad to speak with you.
SFX: beeping, life support systems hum quietly. More beeping.
ADVARI VOICE: Come… Aboard. Alone.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Captain, we've received coordinates denoting a docking bay on their lead vessel. They now appear to have disengaged all communications systems.
CASS: Did they just…?
ELIZABETH: They want me to go over there.
SFX: dramatic and wistful music builds
CASS: Absolutely not.
ELIZABETH: Cass…
CASS: No! Absolutely not! We send you over there and god knows if they'll ever let you leave. It's too dangerous.
ELIZABETH: This may be the only chance we have for a peaceful solution.
CASS: We'd just… We'd be giving them a hostage! Tell her, tell her we can't do this!
DARIUS: My daughter is right, this is a terribly dangerous proposition, and candidly; I'm certain you've seen my position in the house. I am here to carry out my orders to the best of my ability, but I have serious doubts that any diplomatic resolution can be found here.
ELIZABETH: No. I don't hold to that. Whatever they've done, they're clearly a people capable of reason and understanding. Vadric was proof of that. I just can't let this chance pass us by. And if it doesn't work, at least your bosses won't have to worry about having me around anymore.
DARIUS: Foolish as it may be, my duty would compel me to help you attempt this. But you are important to my daughter, if she wishes it, I will prevent you from leaving this ship, and bear whatever consequences there may be.
ELIZABETH: Cass. It's my risk to take.
SFX: gentle music.
CASS: I should never have brought you here. Do it. Go.
ELIZABETH: Thank you.
SFX: music becomes more exciting.
DARIUS: Captain Davenport, my compliments to the boat bay and they're to swing out a launch for Dr. Ancelet at once, send for my personal Coxswain to pilot the launch, no additional crew.
DAVENPORT: Right away, Admiral.
DARIUS: Can you find your way to the boat bay, Doctor?
ELIZABETH: Yeah I got it. Thanks.
CASS: Good luck.
ELIZABETH: I'm coming back, Cass. I'm coming back.
SFX: hopeful music swells. Door whooshes open as footsteps retreat.
DARIUS: She is a brave woman.
CASS: Yeah. She is.
SFX: music fades out.
- Scene Change -
SFX: heavy door cycles open then closed. Quick footsteps.
TANNER: Dr. Ancelet! Rupert Tanner, Coxswain. Follow me quickly, if you please. The launch is fueled and ready to go.
ELIZABETH: Thank you.
TANNER: I've been ordered to give you this. It's a recording device and bio-monitor. Put it under your jacket or something. It'll allow that lot up in officer country to monitor your lifesigns and play back any conversations you might have over there once you get back.
ELIZABETH: I don't know if that's a good idea, it might get found. We don't want to offend them.
TANNER: Sorry ma'am, I'm under orders not to let you go without it.
SFX: pneumatic drill sounds.
ELIZABETH: Alright fine.
TANNER: Once we touch down, I'll be staying in the skiff, ma'am. You'll go in alone as they requested. I'll wait as long as it takes for you to come back.
ELIZABETH: Thank you, I appreciate it.
TANNER: Alright, get aboard and strap yourself in. Time's wasting.
SFX: seatbelts buckle.
TANNER: Quarterdeck, Tanner. Doctor Ancelet securely aboard, departing in two minutes.
- Scene Change -
SFX: quarterdeck chatter sounds.
DAVENPORT: Launch is getting underway, Admiral.
DARIUS: Very good, Captain. I believe she will be safe, daughter. There's no logic in inviting her aboard only to harm her.
CASS: I hope you're right. …Thank you.
SFX: tense music starts.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Captain, I have a signal from Commodore Medwin, he requests permission to speak with Admiral Farren.
DARIUS: On speakers please, Lieutenant.
MEDWIN (over comms): Pendragon, Dalliance. I fear I may have a developing situation over here. I received a signal from the Acasta, a brig in my squadron, it sounded like Commander Ramsey was trying to declare an emergency, but his transmission was cut off. I hailed them again and got a report that all's well, but from another member of the crew, not Commander Ramsey. When I asked they said he was indisposed. They've not responded to any further hails, sir.
DAVENPORT: Mutiny.
MEDWIN (over comms): That's my feeling as well, Captain. I can have a marine company dispatched to inspect the ship and retake it if necessary.
DARIUS: Negative, Commodore. Hold fast. Any additional skiff activity within our formation could be interpreted by the Advari as some kind of subterfuge.
MEDWIN (over comms): Then what do you propose, Admiral?
DARIUS: Lieutenant, please signal the following to the Acasta and repeat transmission at thirty second intervals: “Commander Acasta. This is Fleet Admiral Darius Farren. Report your situation immediately. Further failure to communicate will be considered an act of desertion, and appropriate measures will be taken.”
CASS: My god, they could do anything. If they go for the gate–
DARIUS: I know.
DAVENPORT: Dr. Ancelet's launch now entering Advari formation, Admiral.
- Scene Change -
SFX: engine rumbles. Mysterious music plays.
TANNER: God. The size of those ships. Creeping me out being this close.
ELIZABETH: Yeah. Last time I was this close it didn't go down very well.
TANNER: Gotta admit, they're kinda weirdly pretty though.
ELIZABETH: Yeah, I always thought so.
TANNER: You think there's any chance of working out a peaceful solution with these guys, ma'am?
ELIZABETH: I believe so. I have to.
TANNER: Hope you'll forgive me, ma'am, but I don't know whether to root for you or not. I knew people on Gatehouse. You can still see the wreckage from here. Can't say I wouldn't mind a chance to hit them back.
ELIZABETH: I worked at Gatehouse for over a year. I knew everyone there.
SFX: mysterious music continues.
TANNER: Approaching the indicated docking bay. Touch down in twenty seconds. Looks like they got some people down there to meet you.
SFX: engine rumbles as the shuttle lands. Engine winds down, door opens.
ELIZABETH: Alright, here we go.
TANNER: Whatever happens… I'll stay on this pad as long as you need. Good luck.
ELIZABETH: Thanks.
SFX: footsteps approach.
REVION NIRADUR: Lin Elizavet osia.
ELIZABETH: Yes, I am. Tam, en vios.
REVION NIRADUR: En Revion Niradur vios. Oda kamosidava adras nol idvim o. Follow.
SFX: mysterious music fades out.
- Scene Change -
SFX: typing and quarterdeck chatter. Quiet beep.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Admiral, we have a feed from the biomonitor. Dr. Ancelet's vitals are stable, thermal telescopy shows her moving deeper into the vessel.
DARIUS: Very good.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Coxswain Tanner reports the Advari guard contingent have not attempted to breach the skiff, and that Dr. Ancelet was escorted from the bay without violence. Almost no words were exchanged and she was led away in silence.
CASS: Advari aren't big on small talk.
DARIUS: Then perhaps they are not entirely without virtues.
SFX: Cass laughs.
- Scene Change -
SFX: mysterious music resumes.
REVION NIRADUR: Lin ni oda siida keria eva, i lin a darita adavia keria arashfasa. You. Enter. Show respect.
SFX: door opens slowly.
ELIZABETH: Okay.
SFX: mysterious music continues. Door closes. Footsteps approach, and menacing choral music swells.
VALENDRA: Outsider. You stand in the presence of Empress Valendra the Sixth, Sovereign of the Reverent and Blessed Lightsinger of Holy Advar.
REVION NIRADUR: You. Kneel!
ELIZABETH: Oh, yes, of course.
SFX: music becomes quietly menacing.
VALENDRA: Nol niro, Revion. Nal kadidadol daral vis.
REVION NIRADUR: Isarim, din idava.
VALENDRA: You are the one called Elizabeth.
SFX: door opens and closes as Revion Niradur leaves.
ELIZABETH: Yes… uh… Your Grace. I am. Though, if I may. I do not know how you know of me, did you perhaps hear from Vadric after-
VALENDRA: Do not speak that name!
ELIZABETH: I'm sorry, I-
VALENDRA: It is because of your cursed kind that he has betrayed me. Left me to suffer my burdens alone.
ELIZABETH: Oh shit… you're the one. No, I'm sorry you've got it wrong, he didn't betray you, he went back for you-
VALENDRA: And he found me. But he was not willing to share the weight I now carry. Now he works to turn my people against me.
ELIZABETH: I'm sorry? I'm a bit out of the loop here…
VALENDRA: It is not from Vadric that I have heard your name. It is from my true master, now revealed. He knows you as he knows all in his domain, you who poked and prodded at his sacred body to satisfy your primitive curiosity. You called him "Pulsar", but that is not his name.
ELIZABETH: What?
VALENDRA: Listen and attend, Human. A pivotal moment approaches, and it is vital that you understand. Until recently, I flailed in ignorance as you do, and in my arrogance I sought to prove false the truths with which I was raised. But I was wrong. Terribly wrong. Within The Wheel, Holy Advar lives. You yourself have seen his good works. You have seen how they defy your science. He gifts all those who dwell within his Sanctum a great bounty, that they may never go wanting. But it is only for the chosen few. There is a threshold, a harmony which must never be broken. A limit to those who may dwell in his domain. When you and your humans came to the Sanctum, you drew us closer to that threshold, and to the terrible retribution my Lord will deliver, should it ever be crossed. You must never enter the Sanctum again.
ELIZABETH: Okay… this is a lot. Then this blockade… it's only to keep us out?
VALENDRA: I do not wish further harm to your people. But more than that, we do not wish to be here, outside of his light, amidst the Great Nothing. These holy vessels are needed in the Sanctum, to carry sacrifices necessary to maintain our Lord's harmony, and my warriors grow fearful in this godless place. We cannot remain here forever. But neither can we allow you to enter. So I seek… an armistice.
ELIZABETH: My people don't intend you any harm either, but it's not so simple. Where you have great bounty, we have starvation. Our lands are suffering a terrible famine. That's why we came to your Sanctum in the first place. We didn't know that your people lived there, it was not our intent to attack you. We came in search of resources to save ourselves, and if we can't return, we will die.
VALENDRA: That is outside of my concern.
ELIZABETH: I'm sorry but it isn't. If we are left here to starve, our people will act out of desperation before submitting to extinction. Some among us will choose to attack you, and the more temperate of us will not be able to stop it. Even if you destroyed the gate they'd only try to build another.
VALENDRA: You would force us to remain here in this wretched place, simply to restrain your violent urges?
ELIZABETH: That would not be my preference. There must be an arrangement that can be reached, a way that both our races may survive.
VALENDRA: Perhaps.
SFX: music swells, then fades.
- Scene Change -
SFX: quarterdeck chatter.
DARIUS: Any word, Captain?
DAVENPORT: No, Admiral. Dr. Ancelet's life signs appear to be unchanged, but it's difficult to get a clear signal from that far within the Lightship.
DARIUS: Understood.
CASS: They've come this far without violence. They must really want to negotiate.
SFX: urgent beeping, tense exciting music starts.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Admiral! Acasta has lit up her drive, she's moving out of formation, bearing for the Advari blockade!
CASS: No! You've got to stop them!
DAVENPORT: Hail them again, Lieutenant.
SIGNALS OFFICER: I'm trying, Captain. No response.
DARIUS: Any reaction from the Advari fleet?
SIGNALS OFFICER: Nothing yet sir, but Acasta is moving off fast. I have Commodore Medwin for you, sir.
DARIUS: Put him through.
MEDWIN (over comms): Pendragon, Dalliance. I am taking my squadron in pursuit of the Acasta, they must be made to heave to before they provoke the enemy fleet.
DARIUS: Negative Commodore! You will hold fast, I say again, hold fast! If one ship flying towards them doesn't look enough like an attack, a whole squadron certainly will.
MEDWIN (over comms): Then what do you suggest, Admiral!?
DARIUS: Lieutenant, give me an open channel to the Acasta again.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Yes sir.
DARIUS: Acasta, Pendragon. This is your final warning. Reverse your course immediately or you will be fired upon.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Acasta is running up her guns, Admiral! Target bearing for the Advari Fleet.
CASS: Oh my God…
SFX: music swells
- Scene Change -
SFX: gentle, tense music resumes
ELIZABETH: If you would only allow us the opportunity to reoccupy our facilities on the planet we called The Greenhouse, and to carry supplies from there back to Tantalus--
VALENDRA: Absolutely not. No human will ever again enter the Sanctum of Advar. But it is possible there may be an alternative solution.
SFX: door opens, footsteps quickly approach.
REVION NIRADUR: Din idava, en--
VALENDRA: En mit kadidadol darer vis nisan!
REVION NIRADUR: Enodazara, ven ata. Vez vu nol al kamosal nol al landratal erut nal idu fe kaihat, rial–
SFX: a muffled boom and rattle.
VALENDRA: You would fire on us, when we have invited you into our midst!? What treachery is this!
ELIZABETH: I don't know! I'm sorry, I don't know what's going on!
VALENDRA: Then we will respond in kind. Revion, a nidi mid sirita nusio.
ELIZABETH: No wait!
REVION NIRADUR: Isarim, din idava.
SFX: exciting music fades as the door opens and closes.
- Scene Change -
SFX: tense music, urgent chatter on the deck.
SIGNAL OFFICER: Admiral, Acasta has fired on the lead Advari ship! Two lightships now moving from their positions to respond!
DAVENPORT: Admiral, what are your orders sir?
SIGNALS OFFICER: Captain, I have the commanders of the Union and Merician contingents on the horn demanding to know what is going on.
DAVENPORT: Tell them to remain on station and hold their fire at all costs. Admiral Farren! Your orders sir?!
DARIUS: Captain Davenport, you will order your weapons officer to run up the heavy twenty-fives and target the Acasta.
DAVENPORT: Admiral, at this speed and separation I'm not sure we can disable them cleanly. We may hit the Advari or the gate.
DARIUS: You will not be firing to disable, Captain. Your orders are to destroy the Acasta.
CASS: What? No, you can't!
DAVENPORT: Admiral, that is a CDF vessel with almost twenty officers and ratings aboard.
DARIUS: I am keenly aware of that Captain, we have no alternative and only moments to spare, you will destroy the Acasta immediately!
CASS: I won't let you do this. I won't let you kill those people!
DARIUS: There is no other way!
DAVENPORT: Admiral Farren, I would like this order in writing if you please.
DARIUS: You know damn well there’s no time for that! Weapons Officer!
CASS: No, wait! I'll do it. Don't make them do it. If it has to be done. Then I'll do it.
DARIUS: No. Weapons Officer. Please leave your station.
WEAPONS OFFICER: Sir.
SFX: footsteps. Melancholy music.
DARIUS: I will take the shot myself.
CASS: Wait… don't, I-
DARIUS: Cassandra. It's alright.
SFX: muffled whirring as the guns aim.
DARIUS: Target acquired. Confirm?
SIGNALS OFFICER: You have a clear shot, Admiral.
DARIUS: Firing.
SFX: gun fires. Muffled explosion.
SIGNALS OFFICER: Direct hit. The Acasta has been destroyed. No visible survivors.
SFX: mournful music.
DARIUS: Yeoman of the Deck. You will make a very clear accounting in the ship's log, that what just took place was not the action of Captain Davenport, who rightly protested my order in the best spirit of a CDF Officer, nor the action of the young weapons officer, nor my daughter… It was my action alone. And the full responsibility is mine.
- Scene Change -
REVION NIRADUR: Din idava, mit al landratal ni fin kamosa kisanomos maraful. A kamosa mit nol siritom eniro reliu.
VALENDRA: What? You have destroyed your own vessel!? What is the meaning of this?
ELIZABETH: I don't know. But if I had to guess… they must have attacked you without orders. Yeah, B-by destroying that ship they're showing you that we disavow their actions. M-my people are showing you their commitment to a peaceful solution.
VALENDRA: If you cannot control your warriors, why should I trust any arrangement made with your people?
ELIZABETH: Don't trust my people. Trust me. Because if you don't, you'll have to hold this blockade until every last human in Tantalus is dead.
SFX: music continues.
VALENDRA: Revion Niradur. Fenel kamosidava mid fil iskil orisatal danaro.
REVION NIRADUR: Tam, ven ata.
SFX: door opens, Revion Niradur leaves.
VALENDRA: We will stand down, and we will make it clear to your humans that if they continue to hold their own positions, we will take no further action.
SFX: music fades out.
ELIZABETH: Good... good.
VALENDRA: I propose an arrangement, human. Though your people may not enter The Sanctum. I will arrange for regular shipments of food and fertile soil to be deposited on your side of the blockade. There your people may collect them without interference, and do with them as you wish. I will maintain this arrangement until I am satisfied that I have done enough for your people. At which time my ships will return to the Sanctum, and destroy the gate behind us.
ELIZABETH: Until you're satisfied? I have to ask, how long would that be? Without knowing the size or content or frequency of these shipments, I couldn't begin to guess how long it would be necessary to keep this going to stabilise our-
VALENDRA: If I have understood your race correctly, human. This famine from which you suffer. This famine that you would gladly steal from my lands to survive… Is a self-inflicted wound. It is the fruit of your short-sightedness, of your warring among yourselves, of your poor governance and petty discord, is it not?
ELIZABETH: I cannot deny that.
VALENDRA: Then you will accept my proposal. And leave this ship content in the knowledge that by my grace, and the grace of my Lord, are your peoples' misfortunes made smaller than they were but a moment ago.
ELIZABETH: I can only take your proposal to our leaders. Humanity does not speak with one voice. Across Tantalus there are three powerful nations, and countless cultures. There will need to be further negotiations to-
VALENDRA: No. There will be no further negotiations. Humanity spoke with one voice before. Yours. You represented all of your species when you came to the Sanctum, in this moment you will do so again. The offer I make, I make it to you. I will not make such an offer again. On behalf of all your peoples. Choose.
SFX: determined music swells.
ELIZABETH: I accept.
- Scene Change -
VALENDRA (recording): "You have seen how he defies your science. He gifts all those who dwell within his sanctum a great bounty, that they may never go wanting. But it is only for a chosen few."
SFX: door chimes.
DARIUS: Enter.
SFX: door opens.
DARIUS: Ah, daughter, Come in. Sit down.
SFX: door closes, footsteps approach.
CASS: Thanks.
DARIUS: Is Doctor Ancelet well?
CASS: Yeah. A bit shaken up, but she'll be okay.
DARIUS: Good. …Good.
CASS: The Acasta… I… Are you okay?
SFX: mournful music starts.
DARIUS: I… Am not. I have murdered those for whom I was responsible. Mutineers, perhaps, some of them. But still men and women who made the same oaths I did. I feel there must have been another way, but try as I might… I cannot find it.
CASS: There was no other way.
DARIUS: And now I learn what I have bought with my crime. We are to be fed scraps from the master's table. For as long as they see fit to bother with us. Surely the cabinet cannot let this… humiliation stand. Not after what has happened here. Oh, you must understand Cassandra, I do not blame Dr. Ancelet, though I fear many will. She did the only thing there was to do in the moment given to her.
CASS: It's okay, I know. And for what it's worth. I think you're right. I'm all for a diplomatic solution, but that's not what this is. We're placing the fate of our species entirely in their hands, and we can't trust them. I hope the cabinet feel the same way.
DARIUS: Thank you, Cassandra.
SFX: typing on tablet. Music fades out.
DARIUS: We've sent word to your ship, they are in the area and will be here to pick up you and Dr. Ancelet by tomorrow evening.
CASS: Will you be heading back to Centrum to be debriefed?
DARIUS: Yes, but first I intend to remain here and take over this station until reinforcements arrive, so that Commodore Medwin's squadron may return home for food and rest. They should never have been left on this post for so long without support.
CASS: Alright. We'll pack our gear.
SFX: Cass stands. Slow footsteps. Touching music starts.
CASS: Thank you... Dad. For what you did for me today.
DARIUS: It was the very least I could do.
SFX: door opens, then closes.
- Scene Change -
SFX: mellow music plays.
ELIZABETH: Personal log. Elizabeth Ancelet. 166th of Solstice, 305 PCU. Where even to begin... It seems I got everything I wanted. The chance to be involved again, to make the big choices… and the chance to learn the truth about the pulsar. Maybe Cass was right, and we should never have left that house on Rialtis. The pulsar… The Empress called it "The Wheel". Clearly she believes their God somehow dwells inside it. And against all the reason and scientific integrity I have built my life around, I still find myself unable to say for certain that she's wrong. Whatever it is, it defies everything we know about the universe. That much was clear even before today. And the fear in her eyes was real. This thing terrifies her, there's no doubt of that. And yet now we are further from it than we might ever be. Trapped in Tantalus by an agreement I myself have made. But despite all of this, one thing sticks in my mind more than anything else. Vadric. He fights against her now, she said. To turn her people against her. If everything else were not enough, now I worry I’ve thrown in our lot with the wrong side. Or worse... That I may never know one way or the other.
- Scene Change -
GUARD: Madame Prime Minister, Honorable Members of the Cabinet. Fleet Admiral Darius Farren, Right Honorable Member for Tripathia, awaits an audience as requested.
SARALI: Thank you. You may send him in.
SFX: two knocks on thick wood. A heavy door opens. Footsteps approach.
DARIUS: Madame Prime Minister.
SFX: door closes.
SARALI: You may stand easy, Admiral.
ROUGEOT: Wait. As Defence Secretary I move that Admiral Farren be required to surrender his sword for the duration of these proceedings.
DARIUS: Excuse me? Mr. Rougeot, am I to understand that I am to be placed on court martial? If so then you know as well as I that the Judge Advocate General must be present.
ROUGEOT: You are not to be court martialed, Admiral. Not yet, anyway. But… based on the content of your reports from Cardeus I believe this debriefing should bear the character of a court martial.
DARIUS: That is well. But if I am not to be put on trial here then by ancient precedence, I will not surrender my sword, Mr. Rougeot.
ROUGEOT: In Admiralty House your word may be law. But this is the office of the Cabinet, Admiral, and you will show deference in the presence of your betters.
HOME SECRETARY: Mr. Rougeot, I hardly think this display serves anyone's needs.
SARALI: I couldn't agree more.
ROUGEOT: Very well. Then perhaps at least the Admiral can provide some explanation for his actions. For the disgraceful state of morale and supply within a pivotal squadron of this nation's navy which he commands. For the shameless dismissal of a senior and well connected Ambassador before he had been allowed to even begin his work, and above all for the ruthless destruction of the CSV Acasta and the murder of its eighteen crewmen! And perhaps then, he can explain why after all of these actions, the Admiral saw fit to be almost four weeks overdue in returning here to face this debriefing!
DARIUS: I protest in the strongest possible terms. My delay in returning here was a result of my choice to remain on station at the blockade, such that Commodore Medwin's force may at last be dismissed, after they had remained on station without resupply for months, following an absurd request by Vice Admiral Hunswick, approved by your very hand, Mr. Rougeot! To have their supplies redirected to his picket station in Axius where they were not remotely needed!
SARALI: Surely, Admiral Farren. The conduct of a flag officer under your command is your responsibility.
DARIUS: It would be, Madame Prime Minister. And given the opportunity I would never allow such a foolish order to be approved. However I have now debriefed Vice Admiral Hunswick myself, and been made aware that this request, submitted without my knowledge, was signed by our esteemed new Defence Secretary Mr. Rougeot in the gardens of the National Opera House by way of a personal favor!
SFX: chair scrapes, fist thumps against desk.
ROUGEOT: Damn your impertinence sir!
HOME SECRETARY: Admiral Farren, you will not levy accusations of corruption at a member of this honorable cabinet within these halls.
SARALI: We are not here to indulge in petty bickering.
SFX: music fades in.
DARIUS: I quite agree, Madame Prime Minister. If I may address this cabinet seriously. We have, in this agreement with the Advari, entered into the role of a slave state. The supplies they deliver us may provide a brief respite, but we cannot allow ourselves to see this as a genuine solution! I must strongly push that preparations begin to make a forcible return into Advari space while we still have the capacity to do so.
ROUGEOT: You would once again push for the betrayal of a peaceful armistice, Admiral Farren? As you did to such glorious effect at Jharid-Selan?
SARALI: After some deliberation, it is the decision of this cabinet that no action be taken to disrupt the Ancelet Initiative. This new arrangement represents a desperately needed relief from decades of famine.
DARIUS: This arrangement represents the subjugation of this nation! We have placed ourselves at the mercy of an alien state we have less than no cause to trust, and made ourselves reliant upon their good grace. Mr. Rougeot would invoke recent history, so I shall do the same. Fifteen years ago it was the worlds of the Southeastern Frontier who relied on such an arrangement with our very Assembly for their survival, and if they had not taken up arms to break such an arrangement, they would likely have been the first to be driven to extinction by this famine.
HOME SECRETARY: A false equivalency, Admiral.
DARIUS: Yes, you're quite right, it is. Because if we allow this new arrangement to stand, it will not be only one nation that is driven to destruction, but all of humanity!
SARALI: Your counsel has been duly noted, Admiral Farren, and in light of your past conduct, and the apparent necessity of the Acasta's destruction in preserving peace with the Advari, we will take no punitive measures towards you at this time. However, this government's commitment to the Ancelet Initiative remains steadfast, and though it is your right to do so, I would discourage you from raising this issue any further in this House. You are dismissed, Admiral.
SFX: two knocks on the door.
DARIUS: Yes, ma'am.
SFX: Door opens, then closes.
DARIUS: Cowards. Cowards and fools, every jack of them.
SFX: footsteps approach.
HARPER: Admiral Farren, sir.
DARIUS: Captain Harper.
HARPER: What did they say sir? Will they take action?
DARIUS: All the great men and women who sat in those chairs. Raised up this nation… guided it through every hardship. They're not fit to inherit what they built.
HARPER: There must be something to be done, Admiral?
DARIUS: Pass the word to Mr. Renfrey, the Provost Marshal and the others. No more, Captain... No more.
SFX: The Sojourn Ending Theme plays.
NARRATOR: You have been listening to The Sojourn, Season Two Episode Six: Vanishing Point, written and directed by Daniel Orrett and Larissa Thompson, story by Lead Writer Daniel Orrett and Staff Writer Larissa Thompson. Produced by Executive Producer Daniel Orrett, and Producers Larissa Thompson and Gabriel Fonseca. Scientific consultation by Gabriel Fonseca. Sound design and audio editing by Dave Chick. Assembly editing by Aiden Brookstone. Audio mixing by Dave Chick. Featuring Special Guest Star Lelia Symington as Empress Valendra the Sixth, with additional voices by Phil Rowe, Maayan vos de Bettancourt, Abigail Turner, Philip C, Ian Russell, James Smillie, Simon Alison, David John-Bores, JD Kelly, Kaiden Christianson, Jasmine Yates, Matthew Vanston, and Maddi Albregts. Music by Sam Redfern. Also featuring “Wilderness” by Taylor Davis which is used with the given permission of Taylor Davis representatives. Special thanks to Honorary Producer Jason Winters and Honorary Producer Kepler. This was The Sojourn Season Two Volume Two. Please visit www.thesojournaudiodrama.com for more information on the series and upcoming volumes. Thank you for listening.
SFX: The Sojourn Ending Theme continues.